A giant falls, but his legacy stands

Bangladesh has lost one of its most esteemed industrialists and philanthropists with the passing of Syed Manzur Elahi, the Founding Chairman of Apex Footwear Ltd, Apex Tannery Ltd, Pioneer Insurance Co Ltd and Mutual Trust Bank Ltd, today (Wednesday). A towering figure in the country’s trade, finance, and industry sectors, he leaves behind a lasting legacy of innovation, leadership, and service.

With a career spanning decades, Syed Manzur Elahi played a pivotal role in shaping Bangladesh’s financial and industrial landscape. He was the Chairman of Apex Group, one of the country’s most successful business conglomerates, and led multiple ventures, including Apex Footwear Ltd, Apex Pharma Ltd, and Blue Ocean Footwear Ltd.

His business acumen earned him numerous accolades, including the “Business Executive of the Year 2000” by the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Bangladesh and the “Business Person of the Year 2002” award by The Daily Star and DHL Worldwide Express. 

In recognition of his lifetime contributions, he was given the “Lifetime Achievement Award” by the UK-Bangladesh Catalysts of Commerce and Industry (UKBCCI).

Beyond his entrepreneurial success, Syed Manzur Elahi was known for his dedication to public service. He served twice as an Adviser to the Caretaker Government of Bangladesh, in 1996 and 2001, where his professionalism and non-partisan leadership were widely respected.

His contributions extended to various institutions as he chaired organisations such as the Credit Rating Agency of Bangladesh (CRAB), Sunbeams School Ltd, and the MTB Foundation. Additionally, he was an influential board member of East West University, Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), Diabetic Association of Bangladesh (owner of BIRDEM Hospitals), and Bangladesh Freedom Foundation.

He was also serving as the Managing Director of International Publications Limited, the owning company of The Financial Express, and was the publisher of the newspaper.

His leadership extended to serving as Chairman of the Bangladesh Association of Banks (BAB), Vice Chairman of the Bangladesh Association of Publicly Listed Companies (BAPLC), and Director of Bangladesh Bank, Sonali Bank, and Bangladesh Krishi Bank. He was also the President of the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) and Bangladesh Employers Association (BEA), reinforcing his commitment to economic growth and corporate excellence.

In addition to his corporate and financial endeavours, Syed Manzur Elahi was the Honorary Consul for Belgium in Dhaka and a staunch supporter of social and philanthropic causes. He was deeply involved in numerous charitable organisations, reflecting his commitment to giving back to society.

Born on February 26, 1942, in Kolkata, Manzur Elahi moved to Dhaka with his family after earning a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from St Xavier's College. He later completed his Master’s in Economics from the University of Dhaka. He served as the President of the Dhaka University Alumni Association (DUAA).

Syed Manzur Elahi will be remembered for his visionary leadership, unwavering dedication to national development, and outstanding contributions to the country’s trade, industry, and philanthropy.